How Floridians Are Celebrating Hispanic Heritage 2021

TAMPA BAY, FL — Hispanics all over Florida began celebrating Hispanic Heritage month Sept. 15. The festivities usually continue through the month of November.

There are heritage and cultural celebrations happening all around Florida. Here’s just a few in and around the Tampa Bay area:

The 2021 ViVa Tampa Bay Hispanic Heritage Festival happens Oct. 9 at Harvey Perry Sr. Park at 900 E. Scott St., Tampa. This music and food festival is designed to celebrate the service of Hispanic men and women in Tampa Bay. It is sponsored by All American Music Productions and local businesses. For more information, email arlene@allamericanmusicevents.com or visit the website.

The 17th annual Conga Caliente celebrating Hispanic art and cultures returns to Al Lopez Park this November. Admission is free. There’s free live music and performances, a conga players contest, and traditional foods like arroz con gandules and empanadas. There will also be a beer garden and cigar and domino area. Sponsors are the city of Tampa and Conga Caliente TV. For more information, click here.

In Miami, festivals honoring Cuban culture are happening every day. Click here for a list of organizations hosting music and dance festivals.

The Tampa Hispanic Heritage Inc. is hosting several contests. Click here for information or email THHI1979@gmail.com. You can also celebrate at home by cooking desserts or traditional recipes with family.

For the music lovers, the White House is honoring Latino artists with the 34th Hispanic Heritage Awards. The awards were created by the White House in 1987. It’s considered an honor by Latinos for Latinos to be nominated. Viewers can watch top Latino performers and personalities. The program airs on PBS stations Oct. 8 or by streaming on pbs.org.